On 14 December, a second attempt is made by two light cruisers and five destroyers. This time Johan Pitka, a master mariner, is on board the squadron’s flagship; his knowledge of local conditions and where the enemy could be positioned on the front line is invaluable. Sinclair is delighted by Pitka, saying he is an optimist and the most practical man he has ever met.
Following Pitka’s advice, the ships open fire with their guns, aiming at Red Army’s likely positions in Aseri and Purtse. Purtse bridge is destroyed, and the Red Army’s supply routes and rear lines of communication are cut. On the way back to Tallinn, Pitka, too, mentions the need for leaving some British ships in the capital for defence.